Spare tire kit and jack are essential for obvious reasons, gas jug, plenty of flash lights, Triple A membership and jumper cables. Also learn to check fluids. It's not hard. Transmission fluid is checked when the motor is hot. (turn off engine and immediately pull dipstick, wipe off, stick back in, and pull out, then check fluid level). Oil is the same exact thing but check when it is cold. A lot of break-down/ calling triple A situations can be avoided by these simple things. Also keep some extra of those two things as well as coolant! Coolant is the stuff in that white jug under the hood. It has markings on it telling you if it's low or not. If a transmission starts to act up, often it is because of low transmission fluid. It may not be a permanent fix to add fluid, but it can be, or at least keep you moving.
As far as comfort, they make these awesome D battery powered fans that are clip on to things and are also lights. Pretty handy. Also, I personally go crazy on candles. Whenever I find a dollar candle, I'll try that shit out. I light them whenever I'm just hanging out in or around the van. They provide extra light at night. And it's nice knowing my van isn't a stinky hippy van if I ever have company.
I also have 2 tool baskets. One for smaller items like super glue, extra bulbs, etc. And one for bigger tools like a socket set, spray paint, etc.
I also carry a ton of oatmeal and berries. It stays good for ever, and is an easy, cheap, and tasty way to feed yourself or a bunch of friends if you want to. I usually start my day with a big ol bowl of that and some nescafe instant coffee made on the stove. My morning routine is definitely one of my favorite parts of van life. I love popping the doors open and hanging out making my food and coffee then enjoying it and feeling the morning air.
Also, my buddy took a long broom stick and zip tied it to the non-used rear seat belt things to use as a clothes hanger. This is awesome because it allows me to hang clothes and open up a ton of space.
I know this is kind of a shitty answer to your question about a bag but hopefully it can give you an idea or two for it.
Good luck and safe travels!
Also one thing that helped me out a lot was forcing myself to spend like half a day inside the van for the sole purpose of organization. Just figure out exactly what should be grouped together and what you might not need. Organization is key to happiness in van/ car life.
Ok this post is annoying long. Sorry I'm just enthousiastic and love talking about this stuff. Love
and good vibes. haha
